Lean Manufacturing Series: EAM Drives Lean Manufacturing

As the third and final blog in our Lean Manufacturing Series, we are going to discuss the role Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) plays in a lean model. It is a known fact that Life Sciences companies must have a centralized system in place for their manufacturing processes in order to meet CGMP standards. EAM systems enable companies to remain efficient, compliant, and profitable.

The Role of EAM In Lean

Lean manufacturing thrives on the foundation of a centralized system, such as an EAM, and maintenance. Both are as much a part of the manufacturing process as any production-related task.

Operational Efficiency – This is of paramount importance in a demand-driven market. All critical assets must be functioning at an optimal level to ensure timely and high-quality production. As such, downtime resulting from asset failure or excessive waste places a major cavity in profit margins.

Centralization – Such a system allows a company to view its entire manufacturing process from beginning to end; ensuring efficient and optimal production. This paperless solution increases compliance, technician productivity, and information visibility.

Predictive Maintenance – An EAM system allows manufacturers to use asset performance data to predict the exact point of failure for a critical asset. Appropriate repairs and replacements can be conducted without interrupting the process of the entire value stream.

Overall, we have seen that lean manufacturing allows companies to meet FDA regulations, as well as flourish in an increasingly competitive market. Adopting a lean model that encompasses a proficient EAM system gives way to the enhancement of productivity, profitability, quality and compliance.

Sources/Additional Information:

“Lean and Mean: How Does Your Supply Chain Shape Up?” by Knut Alicke and Martin Losch, McKinsey & Company